61Amy Hannah Johnston, a retired Brigadier General from Fredericksburg, VA, dedicated over three decades to serving in the U.S. Army. She grew up in Edina, MN, and Findlay, OH, with a deep sense of duty, discipline, and commitment to community service. These values guided her throughout her distinguished military career and continue to influence her contributions to civilian life.
Amy served in various key global roles throughout her military career, where she demonstrated exceptional leadership. She was stationed in Seoul, Korea, and Mons, Belgium, holding important positions at the United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command in Korea, and the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE). These roles enabled her to contribute to NATO's operations and international peacekeeping efforts. In addition to her military service, Amy serves as an advisor for the Center for Information, Democracy, and Citizenship at the American University in Bulgaria, helping to advance global democracy and civic engagement.
A central aspect of Amy’s life has been honoring the memory of her late husband, Major General Gary W. Johnston. Following his untimely passing, she created the Gary Johnston Leadership Award at Arkansas Tech University to celebrate his legacy. The award continues to recognize individuals who embody the leadership qualities, integrity, and service her husband demonstrated throughout his career, ensuring that his influence lives on for future generations.
Amy’s academic achievements played a crucial role in her success. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Ohio State University, followed by a master’s degree in Communications from the American University in Washington, DC. These fields gave her valuable insights into human behavior and organizational structures, which proved vital throughout her military career. Amy also holds an M.S. in National Resource Strategy from the Eisenhower School at the National Defense University and graduated from the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
Over her 31-year career, Amy held numerous senior leadership positions in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Her humanitarian efforts included Operation Sea Signal in Cuba, where she assisted Cuban and Haitian migrants seeking asylum. Amy also contributed to disaster relief operations after Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans and supported Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. She later served in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom, where she was pivotal in stabilizing the region during years of conflict.
Since retiring from the Army, Amy has remained actively involved in her community. She works with Tree Fredericksburg to promote sustainability and enhance urban green spaces. Additionally, Amy volunteers with her therapy dog, Duke, through the Alliance for Therapy Dogs, offering support to military veterans in Virginia.
Amy Hannah Johnston’s career and ongoing work reflect her enduring commitment to leadership, service, and making a difference. Her legacy inspires those around her, both within the military and beyond.